A quick word with some success stories
We thought you’d want to hear from a few people that have already accelerated their development through the apprentice scheme and are already speeding their way through a rewarding career at Royal Mail. That’s why we asked a few of our former apprentices about their experiences on the scheme
Chris Vasey
“Before joining Royal Mail, I wasn’t familiar with the type of career development they could offer. But when I saw the bigger picture as an apprentice, it really opened my eyes – there are literally hundreds of different career paths that you can follow with the company. It isn’t all just sorting and delivering letters.
I was a bit reserved when I started out as an apprentice, mainly because I wasn’t sure what to expect. My confidence soon grew though. When you’re feeling comfortable with what you’ve learnt, you can take your knowledge out into the real world and use it to help customers. It’s helped me too – so much so that I actually moved up to management level while still being an apprentice. It’s that fast!
Currently I’m working as an Area Revenue Protection Manager, helping to prevent financial leakage throughout the Royal Mail pipeline. To be honest, I don’t think I would have made it to this level without the excellent foundations the Apprenticeship Scheme allowed me to build. In that respect, the scheme really has changed my life.”
Gemma Jones
“I joined Royal Mail as an apprentice when I was 24. I’d seen the scheme advertised on the website and was impressed with the overall package they could offer to people like me. So I applied, and was successful.
I can remember being apprehensive and nervous before I started the apprentice scheme, I shouldn’t have worried though, as the other apprentices were all very friendly, and I had great support from the trainers, mentors and coaches.
I will say this though – although Royal Mail provides you with virtually everything you need to get ahead quickly, you do need to put some stuff in yourself. You need to be enthusiastic, and willing to get involved. You have to be ambitious as well, and serious about developing yourself.
If you are like that, then there’s no telling how far you’ll go. Look at me – I’m now a Collections Hub Manager. It’s a role with lots of responsibilities, as I’m the one who has to make sure the mail always arrives on time, and that customers get the best service possible. As for where I go next? The sky really is the limit.”
Brad Pettman
“I was 18 when I joined Royal Mail as a postman – back in 2004. I liked the idea of being out and about in the fresh air, and not being stuck at a desk from 9 to 5. I hadn’t any plans to become an apprentice, but the scheme was recommended to me and I haven’t looked back since.
When I joined, I had no idea how big Royal Mail was, or how much they had to offer their customers and employers – but the Apprentice Scheme really was a real eye-opener. I learnt so much on the scheme, but what really stood out was the level of support I received – not just from my managers and my mentors but from other apprentices. It was great to meet up, share ideas, and get help and advice.
Once I’d finished the scheme and gained my NVQ, I applied for the First Steps to Management Scheme and my career really took off. I quickly became an Acting Manager at the Canterbury Mail Centre and then moved into various roles within Planning, Quality and Project Management. I’m currently the Executive Support for the Regional Operations Director, which is a fantastic role where I’m dealing with people at all levels from front line staff to senior management.
I’ve gained so much experience and confidence since I’ve been here and I owe much of that to the Apprentice Scheme. It is hard work, but if you’re enthusiastic and willing to put the effort in, you’ll get such a lot back in return.
I definitely see my future with Royal Mail, and feel incredibly loyal to them. They’ve invested so much time and effort into my development and I have great respect for what they do. I’ve no doubt there will be plenty more opportunities for me here.”
Vickie Richardson
“I first heard about the Royal Mail’s Apprentice Scheme when I saw an advert in the local paper. I’d already heard good things about them as an employer (some members of my family worked for them), so I decided to apply. At the time, the job I was in didn’t pay all that well and there wasn’t much scope for progression so this seemed like the perfect opportunity.
Other than the positive things my family had told me about Royal Mail, I didn’t know a great deal about them, and even less about the Apprentice Scheme. I was pleasantly surprised by the great induction and training that was on offer. They really made sure that I learnt everything I’d need – from the right basic skills to health and safety. Plus, there was loads of on-the-job training too.
I think the thing I enjoyed the most though was all the variety. I had the chance to move around between departments and to meet a lot of different people at all sorts of levels. That variety is still something I really love. I’m now a Deputy Manager (I step in when Line Managers are on holiday) and my role sees me floating between departments – which means every day offers something different. It’s giving me great experience and I’m looking forward to taking on a more senior role soon. Royal Mail really encourages you to apply for vacancies with them; and I even have a mentor who I can turn to for help and advice on anything, including interviews.
I’d definitely recommend the scheme and Royal Mail as an employer. It’s a very positive place where you’re always welcome to ask questions and encouraged to progress.”